It is not difficult in itself, but for some growers, especially novices, it can be problematic to grow small plants and get them safely through the first days. First of all, it is important to always use high-quality seeds from reputable seed banks. However, it is important to know that every cannabis seed and plant is unique and predetermined by its individual genetics. There is nothing we can do about that. But there are some useful tips, which can be used to avoid weak and thin seedlings. After all, the first days of the cannabis plant are as crucial for its further development as all other stages.
1. temperature
Temperature is one of the most important triggers for seed germination. This is due to the fact that the seeds naturally lie dormant during the cold season, and then sprout when spring comes and temperatures rise. This is exactly the best time to grow because the next few months have the most light. Cannabis seeds can sense temperature changes. This is the main catalyst for germination. If the seedlings are placed in a warm place or a heated greenhouse is used (omit the transparent hood for seedlings), this will improve the germination rate and germination will accelerate significantly.
2. light
As soon as the seeds show even the first sign that they could or will "hatch", they should immediately be placed under a suitable light (fluorescent tubes, energy-saving lamps, metal halide lamps or sunlight - cf: the right lighting). The light gives the nascent plantlet the signal for the right direction, so to speak. The cannabis plant then knows which direction to grow in, where up and down is. The taproot (main root) grows away from the light while the cotyledons push upward toward the light. The germinating seed should be in soil, rockwool or other appropriate planting medium at this point.
The source of light is the decisive thing, how well the seedling now develops and gets over the first critical days. If the stem of the seedling is only weak and thin, it may be that the young plant needs more light. If there is too little light, i.e. a lack of light, it happens that the small plantlets stretch conspicuously and become curly (=gelly).
3. irrigation
Another important factor in the first days of the seedlings is the moisture content of the soil. About this point stoplern much grower who is growing for the first time. On the one hand, seeds need water to germinate, on the other hand, overwatering at this stage can quickly cause the little ones to wilt and even die. It is a very delicate balance of moisture that must be maintained in order for the root structure to develop as desired. Roots grow mainly while they search for water in the soil. They grow at night and unlike the other parts of the plant that need CO2, they need oxygen for their development. If the soil is overwatered, i.e. too wet, there cannot be enough oxygen in the soil and the roots cannot form properly. Therefore, it is better to water seedlings only drop by drop in the first few days and then more often if necessary if the soil is dry.
4. make out too much
Especially beginners tend to constantly tamper with their plant even in the first few days out of panic and overconcern. They easily see a sample lem where none is, the plant is immediately repotted and often touched. This, of course, is not good. Watch the seedlings, make sure they don't dry out, but don't bug them all the time, it won't do any good 😉 . There are a few things to keep in mind when growing, still the most important thing is to stay loose. The plant senses your vibes - hectic, panic, constant worrying, pushing and impatient waiting is noticed by the plant, even if you don't believe it, but it is. Cannabis plants develop best when they are grown in a loving environment and nurtured with patience.
Everything you need for a successful grow and for the first days of your plantlets can be found here: Cuttings/Germination.
You can find more on this topic in our articles Seeds germinate properly and The first days.
